News

The PMI Northeast Ohio (PMINEO) Chapter proudly hosted its 2026 Professional Development Day at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, bringing together project management professionals from across Northeast Ohio for a day of learning, networking, and professional growth.

The event featured three distinguished speakers who explored transformation from different perspectives yet shared one common message. Successful transformation requires people-centered leadership, purposeful decision-making, and the willingness to embrace change.

Creativity Drives Innovation

Jeff Tobe opened the day with an engaging and interactive presentation focused on creativity, employee engagement, and customer experience. He challenged attendees to move beyond the mindset of "that's the way we've always done it" and encouraged everyone to embrace curiosity as a catalyst for innovation.

One of his key messages centered on the distinction between customer service and customer experience. While customer service focuses on solving problems, customer experience shapes how people feel throughout every interaction. For project professionals, every stakeholder touchpoint presents an opportunity to build trust, strengthen relationships, and create lasting value.

Jeff also reminded attendees that creativity is not reserved for a select few. By stepping outside our comfort zones and questioning habitual thinking, every project professional can become a more innovative leader.

A Transformation Brought to Life

Salem Choudhry, Chief Experience Officer at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, shared the remarkable story behind the museum's $150 million transformation project.

His presentation highlighted how strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, mission alignment, data-driven decision-making, and operational excellence came together to reimagine one of Northeast Ohio's premier cultural institutions. Beyond creating a modern visitor experience, the project strengthened the museum's role as a community resource dedicated to science, education, and conservation.

Hosting the event at the newly transformed museum allowed attendees to experience that vision firsthand. During lunch and networking breaks, participants explored the museum's exhibits, viewed the wildlife displays, and appreciated the museum's innovative design while connecting with fellow professionals. A Photo Booth also provided a fun opportunity for attendees to capture memories from the day.

Leading Organizational Transformation

Olivier Lazar concluded the educational sessions with an insightful discussion on organizational transformation, leadership, and change management.

He emphasized that not every organizational challenge requires the same approach. Leaders must first understand the depth and complexity of change before determining whether continuous improvement, project management, program management, or full organizational transformation is the appropriate response.

His presentation also focused on the human side of transformation, exploring trust, emotional intelligence, influence, resistance to change, and collaboration. He reminded attendees that while methodologies and governance frameworks are important, successful transformation ultimately depends on people and their ability to navigate uncertainty together.

Learning, Networking, and Community

Professional Development Day offered much more than educational sessions. Throughout the day, attendees connected with fellow project professionals, exchanged ideas, and strengthened their professional networks.

The event concluded with raffle prizes, closing remarks, and a shared appreciation for the speakers, sponsors, volunteers, planning committee, and attendees whose participation made the day a success.

PMINEO extends its sincere gratitude to our keynote speakers, sponsors, volunteers, planning committee, and the staff of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History for helping deliver an exceptional Professional Development Day.

We thank everyone who attended and contributed to another successful chapter event. We look forward to seeing you at future PMINEO programs as we continue to learn, connect, and grow together.

Take a look at highlights from this event on our 2026 Gallery Page!